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This study is a randomized controlled trial. The Minority Female Single Parent (MFSP) evaluation took place in four community-based organizations across the United States. This review focuses on the program operated by the OIC in Providence, RI. Between November 1984 and December 1987, the study randomly assigned low-income, minority single mothers to the intervention condition—in which study members were offered the opportunity to participate in the program—or to the comparison group—in which study members were ineligible to participate in the MFSP program but could seek training programs or support services elsewhere. Participants did not need to be collecting welfare (Aid to Families with Dependent Children) payments in order to be eligible. The OIC randomized sample included 663 participants, the 12-month follow-up analysis sample included 597 participants, and the 30-month follow-up analysis sample included 509 participants. The timing of the surveys is with respect to sample members’ application to receive services. Information on the time between application and random assignment or service receipt is not available.
Enrollment occurred between 1982 and 1987. Individuals were followed for 30 months.
The Rockefeller Foundation supported the evaluation.
Participants enrolled in the study were single-parent, female minorities. On average, intervention-group respondents to the 30-month survey were 27 years old at baseline; about 68 percent were African American, and 24 percent were Hispanic. Less than half of these participants had received a high school diploma (39 percent), about 16 percent had a GED, and most participants (84 percent) reported receiving public assistance in the year before the baseline survey.
Opportunities Industrialization Center
The OIC had been providing job training and other services since 1968, but the specific program was developed for this study.
The MFSP program implemented by the OIC prioritized helping participants meet academic standards. The OIC emphasized completing high school or attaining a GED before any skills training; the organization implemented standardized testing to assess clients’ academic skill levels and provided remedial education. The OIC supported occupational skills training after clients had overcome any academic barriers. For instance, it offered skills training for those who had attained at least a GED, provided by other divisions within the OIC or outside organizations. The OIC also provided in-house counseling services and arranged or provided subsidized child care services.
Comparison group participants were able to obtain services available in the community but did not receive specific referrals or support from the OIC for 30 months.
None
Service length varied depending on participant needs. Remedial courses lasted for three months but could be repeated, and skills training courses lasted between six and nine months.
The Rockefeller Foundation; matching funds from other sources
The study took place at the OIC, a community-based organization located in Providence, RI.
Mental health; Family formation; job characteristics